The 1972 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic issues in the entire history of the hobby. It was the 21st series issued by Topps and featured 660 total cards including player, manager, rookie, and team issue cards. While the entire set holds value for collectors, there are several key rookie cards and stars of the era that stand out as being among the most valuable from 1972 Topps.

Perhaps the single most valuable card from the ’72 set is the rookie card of Hall of Famer George Brett. Brett made his major league debut in 1973 and went on to have a truly remarkable career with the Kansas City Royals spanning from 1973 to 1992. In that time, he batted .305 with 317 home runs and over 1,500 RBI while winning three batting titles and being named the MVP of the American League in 1980. Brett was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1999 in just his first year of eligibility. Considering his legendary career and status as one of the greatest third basemen ever, it makes sense that his rookie card is one of the most coveted. In top mint condition, a PSA 10 graded Brett RC can fetch $15,000 or more at auction given its rarity and significance. Even well-centered near mint to mint copies in the PSA 7-9 range bring over $1,000.

Another extremely valuable card from the ’72 set is the rookie card of Hall of Fame pitcher Rich “Goose” Gossage. Gossage made his MLB debut in 1972 and went on to have a 22-year career spanning from 1972 to 1994 where he compiled a 3.01 ERA, 310 saves, and was selected to 7 All-Star games. He was elected to Cooperstown in 2008, his first year on the ballot. Like Brett, Gossage’s status as a legend of the game and a true Hall of Famer translate to high demand for his rookie card. Examples that grade PSA 10 in pristine condition can sell for over $10,000 today. More common PSA 7-9 copies still range from $500 to $2,000 based on centering and condition. His card is always in high demand from both vintage collectors and those focusing specifically on all-time great relievers.

Another young star and future Hall of Famer whose card holds great value is Johnny Bench. Bench had debuted in 1967 and was already well on his way to superstardom by 1972, having batted .275 with 23 home runs and 80 RBI as a 22-year old in 1971. He would go on to have a truly dominant 17-year career spent entirely with the Cincinnati Reds from 1967 to 1983 where he was named the NL MVP twice and became perhaps the greatest offensive catcher in baseball history. Bench was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1989 in just his first year of eligibility. Unsurprisingly, collectors covet any card showing the iconic catcher in his prime years with the Big Red Machine. High grade PSA 8-10 copies of Bench’s ’72 Topps card can sell for $500 to $1,000 or more based on centering, sharpness of image, and overall appeal.

Along with young future Hall of Famers, the 1972 set also features several veteran superstars who were in the midst of incredible careers at the time such as Hank Aaron. Aaron was already well on his way to breaking Babe Ruth’s all-time home run record, having hit 40 or more home runs in each of the previous 3 seasons including a league-leading 47 in 1971. He would go on to break the record in 1974 and retire with 755 career home runs. As one of the true icons of the game during a dominant era for the Atlanta Braves franchise, Aaron’s ‘72 Topps card remains a highly sought after piece for collector’s of all areas. PSA 9-10 copies in pristine condition rarely sell for under $1,000 when available on the secondary market. Even well-centered examples grading PSA 8 still command six-figure prices. No vintage baseball collection is complete without at least one card paying tribute to the immortal Hammerin’ Hank Aaron during his march towards baseball immortality.

While rookie cards and future Hall of Famers clearly top the Pop charts, the ’72 set also features several other unique short-print and error cards that have gained tremendous popularity over the years due to their scarcity. A notable example is the Billy Grabarkewitz short-print card, which is widely considered one of the true “holy grails” for collectors of the set due to its elusiveness. Grabarkewitz himself was an unremarkable player who appeared in just 80 career major league games, but his card was printed in extremely short order, believed to be around 10-20 copies produced. As a result, even well-centered examples that grade PSA 6 in worn condition can sell for $3,000 or more. Finding one that grades higher is an incredibly rare feat.

Another peculiar card holding immense value is the unofficial “blank back” N.L. Team issue seen by some collectors as the true short-print of the set. While Topps intended to feature statistics and records on the verso, early print runs saw the back left completely blank in error. These scarce test prints rarely trade hands privately, but a PSA-graded example did sell for a stunning $18,000 at public auction in 2019, emphasizing its legendary status among ’72 collectors. The Steve Garvey card featuring an upside-down photograph is a popular error that routinely fetches $500 – $1,000 depending on condition. Tales of these obscure printed anomalies are part of what fuels the mystique behind the hobby’s oldest and most beloved issues.

The 1972 Topps baseball card set endures as one of the most iconic in the history of the hobby, partly thanks to the treasure trove of valuable rookie cards, stars, and errors it features. While condition is always king when appraising value, mint examples of cards like George Brett, Rich Gossage, Johnny Bench, and Hank Aaron will likely always be top of the want lists for collectors from all eras due to their significance in baseball history and culture. Paired with other short-prints and anomalies, it cements the ‘72 issue as one of the most hunted and collected in the vintage realm.

The 1985 Topps baseball card release is considered one of the most iconic sets from the 1980s and features several highly valuable rookie cards that are sought after by collectors. While the 1970s witnessed the boom of baseball card collecting as a mainstream hobby, it was in the 1980s where individual cards started to take on tremendous value, and the 1985 Topps set laid the groundwork for the modern collectibles market.

A main reason for the heightened values seen in 1985 Topps cards are the esteemed rookies that were featured. Perhaps most notably is the rookie card of Hall of Famer Ken Griffey Jr., who made his Major League debut in 1989 and went on to have a legendary career. Griffey’s distinctive smiling face as a fresh-faced 19-year-old made his rookie among the most recognizable in the set. In top gem mint condition, a Griffey Jr. rookie has sold for over $100,000, with most graded examples in the $5,000-$15,000 range. Despite huge printed numbers, the Griffey remains one of the most coveted vintage cards for collectors.

Another hugely valuable rookie from 1985 Topps is Mark McGwire. Like Griffey, McGwire’s rookie card image depicts him as a promising young talent, without any hint that he would shatter home run records in the late 1990s. In pristine mint condition, a McGwire rookie has reached the $80,000 sales threshold, though average prices settle in the $2,000-$5,000 range. Collectors prize it not just as a McGwire rookie, but also as documentation of baseball’s tough “steroid era” in retrospect.

Rounding out the triple threat of elite ’85 rookies is Barry Bonds. His rookie sports one of the set’s most visually stunning portraits, with Bonds staring intensely out of the frame. Bonds would go on to break McGwire’s single season home run record in 2001 and hold the all-time home run lead. Near-mint to mint Bonds rookies are valued between $1,000-$5,000 currently, though examples in impeccable condition can exceed $10,000.

Beyond the headlining rookies, there are other notable standouts in the ’85 set that have earned collector interest. One of the biggest movers in recent years is the Ryne Sandberg card, as his career has gained more appreciation in its aftermath. Sandberg became a Hall of Famer mainly on the strength of his years with the Chicago Cubs in the 1980s. In high grades, a Sandberg can reach over $2,500. Another card that has seen a resurgence is that of Don Mattingly. His elegant left-handed swing made him a fan favorite, though injuries plagued his career. Pristine Mattinglys now sell for $1,000-$2,500.

Condition matters greatly when appraising the value of 1985 Topps cards. Due to the sheer numbers printed, it’s relatively easy to acquire examples in worn lower grades. But pristine copies in terms of centering, corners, edges and surface hold considerable added value. Top graded gem mint 10 copies can be 5-10 times the price of a raw near-mint to mint version. Speckles, swirls or print lines can also severely diminish a card’s worth. Experts suggest using a reputable third party grading service like PSA or BGS to verify a card’s condition status.

The 1985 Topps set laid the foundation for the modern sports collecting industry through its use of bright colors and photography on talented young players who became legends. Keys like the Griffey, McGwire and Bonds rookies retain immense interest decades later and remain blue-chip investments when secured in flawless condition. For collectors, hunting a complete ’85 Topps set or owning vintage stars in top grades provides an tangible link to baseball’s glory years of the 1980s.

The 2023 Topps baseball card set is one of the most anticipated releases each year. As the longest running and most iconic brand in the hobby, Topps cards are sought after by collectors both casual and serious. While it’s still early, here are some of the rookie cards and parallels from the 2023 Topps baseball set that have potential to become extremely valuable in the long run based on the players’ talent and future potential:

One of the top prospects for the 2023 Topps cards has to be Julio Rodriguez of the Seattle Mariners. As the reigning American League Rookie of the Year and an emerging superstar, any Julio Rodriguez rookie cards, especially serial numbered parallels, could gain tremendous value over time if he continues on his current trajectory. His base Topps rookie card may not reach insane prices, but limited parallels like the /199, /99, and especially the rare 1-of-1 variations could become true collector gems worth thousands or even tens of thousands in the years to come. Rodriguez has proven himself as a budding superstar and if he stays healthy to have a long, productive career, his rookie cards will be some of the most coveted from the 2023 set.

Another top young player whose cards could explode in value is Bobby Witt Jr. of the Kansas City Royals. As the #2 overall pick in the 2019 draft and ROY candidate in 2022, Witt Jr. had a breakout season that has collectors high on his potential. His base Topps rookie is likely to rise steadily in secondary market value, but like Rodriguez, the low serial numbered parallels hold the greatest potential. The /99, /50 and especially the 1-of-1 variations of Witt Jr.’s rookie could appreciate massively over the next decade if he becomes the perennial all-star many scouts predicted. He has all the talent to be a true superstar and cornerstone player, making his 2023 Topps cards smart long-term investments.

Rookies Spencer Strider and Michael Harris II of the Atlanta Braves had breakout seasons that have collectors excited about their Topps rookie cards as well. Strider in particular had a dominant rookie campaign out of the bullpen with over 200 strikeouts, putting him on the radar of reliever card collectors. His base rookie may not reach the heights of position players, but parallels like the /99, /50 and 1-of-1 hold potential value if he continues establishing himself as an elite late-inning arm. Harris, meanwhile, had a stellar rookie year that showed why he was such a highly-regarded prospect. If he develops into the perennial all-star centerfielder many project, his base rookie and limited parallels could gain steady value in the years ahead. Both players were huge contributors on a World Series winning team, adding to the long-term potential of their rookie cards.

Two other rookies who had impressive debuts and could see their 2023 Topps cards increase substantially over the long run are Oneil Cruz of the Pirates and Adley Rutschman of the Orioles. Cruz wowed with his incredible power and speed for Pittsburgh, establishing himself as a potential franchise cornerstone. At just 23 years old, he has star potential that makes his Topps rookie cards a great long-term speculation. If he continues developing and stays healthy, low serial parallels could be worth thousands someday. Similarly, Rutschman had a strong first full season after being the top prospect in baseball. As the future catcher for the Orioles’ rebuild, if he becomes the perennial all-star backstop many projected, his base rookie and limited parallels from 2023 Topps hold the potential to gain tremendous value in the hobby.

Two veterans who could see dramatic increases in the values of their 2023 Topps cards based on career milestones include Aaron Judge of the Yankees and Mike Trout of the Angels. Judge is coming off a historic 62 home run season that saw renewed collector interest in his earlier Topps cards. If he can stay healthy and put together a few more monster campaigns to cement his legacy, his base cards and parallels from recent years have room to appreciate substantially. Meanwhile, Mike Trout continues closing in on both the 500 home run and 3,000 hit milestones that will truly etch him alongside the all-time greats of the sport. His cards have always held value due to his generational talent, but crossing those thresholds could send even his newer and common Topps cards to new heights in the resale market. For established star power and career milestones, Judge and Trout offer a high floor of value for their 2023 Topps cards.

Of course, as with any collectible, there is inherent risk in speculating on the future values of any one player’s cards. Injuries, slumps, or not meeting expectations could cause cards of even top prospects to lose value over time. For collectors willing to do research, take a long view, and diversify among several young stars and established veterans, investing in limited parallels and serial numbered cards from the 2023 Topps set offers intriguing high-risk, high-reward potential. If even a few of the players profiled live up to their talent level over the next decade, their rarest 2023 Topps cards could end up being true collector treasures worth thousands of dollars or more.

That wraps up an overview of some 2023 Topps baseball cards that have a chance to become extremely valuable long-term investments based on the players’ talents and career trajectories. Of course, there are always unknowns in predicting unreleased cards, but by focusing on top prospects, young breakouts, and established stars, collectors can put themselves in position to potentially discover the next true hobby gems from the always anticipated Topps flagship baseball release. Careful research, patience, and a long-term outlook will be keys to success when speculating on which 2023 rookies or veterans may stand the test of time.

The 1972 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic issues in the hobby’s history. While it may lack the star power of some previous years, the ’72 Topps set contains several highly valuable rookie cards that continue to excite collectors decades later. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most valuable gems from this 660-card vintage release.

Heading the list is the rookie card of Hall of Fame pitcher Tom Seaver, who debuted with the New York Mets in 1967 but is featured in his first Topps card in 1972. Seaver went on to have an illustrious 20-year career highlighted by 311 wins, three Cy Young Awards, and a spot in the Baseball Hall of Fame. In near-mint to mint condition, his 1972 Topps rookie card can sell for between $20,000-$30,000. The combination of Seaver’s on-field success and the iconic imagery used on his rookie make it one of the most desirable cards in the set.

Another rookie which has soared up the value charts is Reggie Jackson’s 1972 Topps debut. Known as “Mr. October” for his postseason heroics, Jackson slammed 563 home runs over 21 seasons and earned enshrinement in Cooperstown. High-grade copies of his rookie now demand $4,000-$6,000 at auction. What makes it particularly rare is the absence of any photo variation, as Topps only produced one version of Jackson’s rookie card image.

Rookie cards for Hall of Fame second baseman Joe Morgan and elite third baseman Brooks Robinson also command big numbers from collectors. Morgan’s first Topps card, issued during his breakthrough 1971 season with the Houston Astros, fetches $2,000-$3,000 in mint condition. Meanwhile, Robinson’s ’72 card has increased in value to $1,500-2,000 despite being the Baltimore Oriole great’s 12th Topps issue. Both players had already established themselves as superstars by 1972.

While not rookies, the 1972 Topps cards of Hank Aaron and Roberto Clemente have taken on additional significance in recent years. Aaron broke Babe Ruth’s all-time home run record in 1974 with 755 career round-trippers, transcending baseball to become an American icon. Near-mint copies of his ’72 Topps card trade in the $600-$900 range. Clemente, meanwhile, was killed in a plane crash on New Year’s Eve 1972 while attempting to deliver aid to earthquake victims in Nicaragua. The outpouring of sympathy following his untimely death at 38 elevated his 1972 Topps card to $400-$600.

Among the set’s biggest rarities is the 1972 Topps card featuring iconic pitcher Nolan Ryan in an Angels uniform but with an aberrant photo showing him wearing a Pirates cap from a previous season. Only a small number are believed to exist with this photo error, making mint condition versions highly valuable at $8,000-$10,000 each. Another major photo variation occurs with Dick Allen’s card, which exists with either a Philadelphia or Chicago White Sox photo. The rarer Sox version fetches over $1,500.

While it may lack some of the headliner rookie cards of previous years, the 1972 Topps set endures because it captures future Hall of Famers like Seaver, Morgan, and Jackson in their earliest Topps cards. Factors like on-field achievements, unique photo variations, and untimely deaths have driven certain cards in this set to higher values over time. For dedicated collectors, hunting down a complete ’72 Topps set in stellar condition remains a prized and prestigious achievement.